bitterly regretted

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bitterly regretted" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a strong sense of remorse or sorrow about a past action or decision. Example: "She bitterly regretted her decision to leave the job without having another one lined up."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

Yet he bitterly regretted what had become of the surrealists.

The Guardian - Music

Suspended by the network, Bashir issued an apology saying he "bitterly" regretted the "tasteless remark".

Independent

She had let herself be bullied into marrying Gilbert, and within days of the ruinous act she bitterly regretted it.

The New Yorker

Brod later bitterly regretted "the hundreds of joyless hours" squandered in offices by himself and the author of "The Trial".

The New York Times - Magazine

When under the influence, things often get said that are later bitterly regretted but referred to ever after.

Independent

(It's tempting to be reassuring, he writes, but after failed operations he has "bitterly regretted having been too optimistic").

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

Ronald said: "I bitterly regret that".

The Guardian - Arts

I did something that I bitterly regret".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Many still bitterly regret the Soviet Union's disintegration.

The Economist

I bitterly regret not stopping it before I left office".

The Guardian

"He bitterly regrets getting into that car on that day," she said.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "bitterly regretted", ensure the context clearly indicates a strong sense of remorse or disappointment. It's most effective when describing significant life choices or impactful decisions.

Common error

Avoid using "bitterly regretted" for minor inconveniences or trivial situations. The intensity of the phrase can sound melodramatic if the context doesn't warrant it. Consider using milder alternatives like "slightly regretted" or "wished I hadn't" for less significant situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bitterly regretted" functions as a verb phrase indicating a past action that is now viewed with strong negative feelings. Ludwig examples confirm its use in expressing profound remorse or disappointment.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bitterly regretted" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to convey strong remorse or disappointment about a past action or decision. Ludwig AI validates its usage across various contexts, primarily in news and media. While effective in expressing deep regret, it’s important to reserve it for situations that truly warrant such intensity. Alternatives such as ""deeply lamented"" or "sorely regretted" may be more appropriate for less significant situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sorely regretted

Indicates a strong feeling of regret, with an emphasis on the pain or discomfort it causes.

keenly regretted

Emphasizes the intensity or sharpness of the regret felt.

woefully regretted

Emphasizes the unfortunate or deplorable nature of the regretted action.

deeply lamented

Expresses profound sorrow or grief over something lost or done.

felt profound remorse for

Focuses on the deep moral regret or guilt associated with an action.

felt intense sorrow for

Conveys a strong sense of sadness and regret.

earnestly wished undone

Highlights a sincere desire to reverse a past action.

anguished over

Suggests a painful and prolonged period of regret and self-reproach.

deplored with great sadness

Highlights the strong disapproval and sorrow associated with the regret.

had strong misgivings about

Indicates significant doubts and regret concerning a past decision.

FAQs

What does "bitterly regretted" mean?

The phrase "bitterly regretted" means to feel intense sorrow or remorse about something that has happened or a decision that was made. It suggests a strong feeling of disappointment and a wish that things could be undone.

How can I use "bitterly regretted" in a sentence?

You can use "bitterly regretted" to express deep remorse over a past action. For example: "She "deeply lamented" her decision to drop out of college".

What are some alternatives to "bitterly regretted"?

Alternatives to "bitterly regretted" include phrases such as "deeply regretted", "sorely regretted", or "felt profound remorse for", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "bitterly regretted" in formal writing?

Yes, "bitterly regretted" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly when conveying serious disappointment or strong remorse. However, consider the tone and context to ensure it aligns with the overall message.